MILWAUKEE - Marquette University has approved a plan to add to the existing facilities at Valley Fields, the school's 13.5- acre outdoor recreation and varsity sports venue and home of the Golden Eagles men's and women's soccer teams.

Architectural plans for the approximately 3,000-square-foot, donor-funded facility include two dressing rooms with showers and a changing area for game officials. Additionally, there will be an area for sports medicine and the treatment of student-athletes. Public restrooms for spectators will also be included.

"Most importantly, this is an investment in our student-athletes," said Steve Cottingham, director of athletics. "We want to thank the donors who have helped make this a reality and the team that's in place to oversee the project to its completion. This addition will enhance the student-athlete and fan experience at Valley Fields and is a step forward toward our long-term goals for the facility."

Total budgeted cost of the project is $1.2 million. The building will be designed by Korb Tredo Architects and constructed by KBS Construction.

Space for the structure has been allocated east of the stadium bleachers, adjacent to the soccer venue and the teams' artificial turf practice field. Externally, the building will match the façade of the existing permanent structures at Valley Fields. The men's and women's soccer team locker rooms will remain at the Marquette Gym.

While no definitive timetable has been set, school officials said they hope to break ground on the building this summer.